Background:

I created the original Life Clock in 2008. Recently I discovered a great little matrix kit here on tindie from Jollifactory. Since it really simplified construction and reduced cost, the original Life Clock was revamped and made into a kit.

The Life Clock is:

Hardware-wise, it's a Arduino compatible board that attaches to one or more JolliFactory matrices. The board provides the MCU, battery backed time clock, external EEPROM (which holds the font and text), speaker, and the IR receiver for the included remote.

Software-wise it supports a chain of up to at least 3 JolliFactory matrices (although 2 is best), time setting controlled by the mini-remote, and support for an optional GPS.

Functions:

Many of the functions can be seen in the video, but here is a thumbnail:

• Displays the time, hourly chime, alarm, and auto DST set.
• Plays Conway's Game of Life in 3 colors.
• Shows the phase of the moon, days to the next full moon, and name of full moon.
• Displays the time of sunrise and sunset.
• Displays reminders you set for birthdays, etc.

Included / Not Included

The kit includes all parts to build out the board, along with the remote. One JolliFactory matrix is included in the base price. The software is preloaded, however the ability to load the Arduino sketch after personalizing is required. Not included are additional JolliFactory matrices (see options), power source, optional GPS module, and case.

For more information, please see the Life Clock Build and User Guide linked on this page. This guide also provides the links to the current software.